Trying to find an area to snowbird

Question

Does anyone know any sites or places to inquire about how to choose where to snowbird. We will be retiring in a few years fairly young and would like to test out an area this January (we work remote). We like to be close to a beach (15 min or so or even on the beach). Condos or houses are fine. Looking for areas with lots of bars and restaurants (not just chains - we don’t like chains). We are in low 50s and do not prefer to be in an older clientele area (younger and older both are preferable - nice mix of all ages). Would be great to be able to walk to a few places (bars/restaurants) but we will have a car. Not sure if we should try gulf coast (I’d love to be by great water if possible but it’ll still be cold so I probably can’t go in anyway). I was hearing good things about Destin, Sarasota, st Augustine beach, etc. Looking for any advice at all. Thanks!

Answer

Finding the right spot to snowbird in Florida is an exciting journey, especially when you're looking for a mix of beach access, vibrant local culture, and a community that's a good fit for both work and play. There are several great spots in Florida that meet your criteria for a walkable area with great restaurants (not just chains), a mix of ages, and access to the beach. Here are some options to consider:

Destin (Emerald Coast):
Destin is known for its stunning beaches with clear, emerald-green waters. It's a popular destination for both young professionals and retirees, so you’ll find a nice mix of ages. Destin has a great local dining scene, with a variety of non-chain restaurants and bars. You’ll also find plenty of outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. The town has a laid-back vibe but offers plenty of opportunities for socializing, especially around the HarborWalk Village area.
Sarasota (Gulf Coast):
Sarasota offers beautiful beaches, including Siesta Key, which is often rated one of the best beaches in the country. It's a cultural hub with a variety of arts, theater, and music, making it a perfect place for younger and older crowds alike. The downtown area is walkable, with great local bars, restaurants, and shops. Sarasota has a vibrant restaurant scene with lots of independent spots, so you'll definitely find something outside the chain norm. Plus, it's very remote-worker friendly, with cafes and coworking spaces if you need a change of scenery.
St. Augustine Beach:
St. Augustine is a historic town with beautiful beaches and a lively downtown. The area has a good mix of locals and tourists, offering plenty of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. There are lots of local restaurants and bars, and you’ll find a vibrant, yet laid-back atmosphere. St. Augustine has some fantastic beachside condos and homes, and it’s a great spot to spend your winter. It’s also very walkable, especially in the downtown area, and offers a nice combination of history and beach vibes.
Naples (Southwest Florida):
Naples is another excellent spot for snowbirds, especially if you love pristine beaches. While it does have a reputation for catering to retirees, there’s also a growing younger crowd, especially in areas like 5th Avenue South, where you’ll find fantastic local restaurants, boutique shops, and lively bars. It’s not as crowded as places like Miami, and the beaches are fantastic. Naples offers a more upscale atmosphere, but it still has plenty of diversity in terms of age and lifestyle.
Fort Myers Beach (Gulf Coast):
Fort Myers Beach has a more casual, fun vibe with plenty of bars, restaurants, and local shops along Estero Island. It's not overly commercialized, so you’ll find a good selection of locally owned businesses. The beach is gorgeous, and while it might not be as quiet as some other spots, it’s definitely laid-back and offers plenty of things to do. The Fort Myers area in general is also known for having a good mix of ages, so you won't feel out of place whether you're in your 50s or 30s.
Other Resources:
If you’re still in the research phase and want more specific advice, here are a few websites that might help:
- Snowbirdadvisor.com: Offers a range of resources for choosing the best places to snowbird, including forums and detailed guides on different Florida cities.
- RetirementLiving.com: Lists cities and regions that are popular for retirees, with pros and cons for each location.
- Florida Beach Resorts: Check with individual beach resorts or vacation rental websites (like VRBO or Airbnb) to find options that let you experience different parts of Florida before committing to one spot.

In conclusion, Florida offers plenty of great spots for snowbirds, and each area has its own unique vibe. Destin and Sarasota both offer fantastic beaches, a good mix of ages, and plenty to do outside of the touristy chains. St. Augustine Beach has a nice blend of history, beach life, and culture, while Naples and Fort Myers Beach are great options for a more relaxed, yet vibrant, coastal lifestyle. Testing out a few spots in January is a great idea to get a feel for where you'd like to spend more time during your retirement.

Trying to find an area to snowbird

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